As the days grow longer and nature bursts forth in vibrant hues, May truly embodies the essence of spring’s peak, promising the warmth and leisure of summer just around the corner. Despite the occasional unpredictable weather, my garden thrives, becoming more abundant with each passing day, hinting at the glorious season ahead. This month has been a delightful blend of home comforts, sartorial updates, inspiring outings, and quiet moments of reflection.
Join me for a comprehensive recap of my May adventures, from discovering enchanting home fragrances to embracing chic summer fashion, exploring renowned design spaces, and unwinding with captivating literature. This curated collection highlights my most cherished experiences, findings, and style choices, offering a glimpse into the joyful rhythms of this beautiful transitional month.
At Home: Crafting a Sanctuary with Scent and Style
May is the perfect time to refresh our living spaces, inviting in the lightness and vibrancy of the season. This month, I’ve found immense pleasure in the exquisite new home and linen mists from Molton Brown. Known for their luxurious fragrances, Molton Brown has truly outdone themselves with this collection, offering an effortless way to infuse every corner of your home with captivating aromas.
The range features four distinctive scents, each designed to evoke a unique mood: the bright and zesty Orange and Bergamot, the warm and spicy Pink Pepperpod, the rich and floral Ylang-Ylang, and my personal favorite, Gingerlily. Gingerlily is an utterly intoxicating blend, an exotic and alluring fragrance that instantly transports you to sun-drenched shores. Its top notes of cardamom, ginger, and clove create a spicy yet incredibly fresh opening, leading to a heart that is both comforting and sophisticated. This mist is more than just a room spray; it’s a sensory experience that elevates everyday moments.
I’ve particularly enjoyed using the Gingerlily mist as a luxurious finishing touch for freshly laundered linens. A light spritz on bedsheets and towels leaves a subtle, inviting scent that lingers delicately. Beyond the laundry, it transforms my bathtime routine into a spa-like escape and enhances my bedtime ritual. Layering the mist with Molton Brown’s matching candles and aroma reeds in the same Gingerlily fragrance creates a harmonious and deeply relaxing atmosphere, turning my home into a true sanctuary. The carefully crafted scents not only make my living spaces smell divine but also contribute to an overall sense of well-being and tranquility, essential for modern living.
In My Wardrobe: Embracing Effortless Summer Style
As the weather gradually transitions towards summer, my wardrobe naturally follows suit, focusing on lighter fabrics, versatile pieces, and an effortless chic. This month, I discovered a couple of fantastic new additions from Whistles, a brand I consistently turn to for contemporary yet timeless fashion. While I usually pick up one or two items each season, their summer collection this year has particularly impressed me with its strong designs and impeccable quality, perfectly capturing the spirit of modern summer dressing.
One standout purchase has been these navy cotton culottes. I recently wore them and received an unexpected number of lovely compliments, even prompting a rare selfie post on my Instagram! These culottes are a dream to wear – lightweight, incredibly flattering, and supremely comfortable. Crafted from soft cotton poplin, they offer breathability and ease of movement, making them ideal for warm weather. Their wide-leg, cropped silhouette strikes a balance between sophistication and relaxed style, perfect for both casual outings and more polished occasions. I have a strong feeling these will be a staple in my summer wardrobe, becoming a go-to piece for their versatility and undeniable comfort.
To complement the culottes, I couldn’t resist this exquisite white broderie anglaise top. While I generally shy away from overtly ‘lacy’ or ‘pretty’ styles, the delicate detailing and structured cut of this top were simply irresistible. Broderie anglaise is a classic summer fabric, exuding a timeless elegance and offering a beautiful texture. The top’s slightly cropped shape pairs perfectly with the high-waisted design of the culottes, creating a balanced and cohesive silhouette. This ensemble embodies a chic, understated elegance that is both comfortable and stylish – exactly what I look for in my summer attire. It’s a testament to how even subtle details can elevate an outfit, making it feel fresh and contemporary.
Out and About: Discovering Design, Nature, and Community
May proved to be a wonderfully dynamic month, filled with enriching experiences that took me from the heart of British craftsmanship to the serene landscapes of the UK, and into the vibrant world of design events. These outings offered a perfect balance of professional insight, natural beauty, and social connection.
A few weeks ago, Graham and I embarked on a fascinating journey to the Ercol headquarters in Princes Risborough. This behind-the-scenes factory tour was an insightful exploration into the meticulous art of furniture production. We learned about traditional techniques like steam bending, a signature method that allows wood to be shaped into Ercol’s iconic flowing forms. Witnessing the skill and dedication of the artisans was truly inspiring, highlighting the brand’s enduring commitment to quality and heritage. The tour also provided an exclusive glimpse at Ercol’s new designs, which had debuted earlier this year in Milan, alongside beloved classics like their famous studio couch (pictured above), now reimagined in fresh, contemporary colorways. It was a testament to Ercol’s ability to blend timeless design with modern sensibilities, continuously innovating while respecting its rich legacy.
Later in the month, we ventured north to the breathtaking Forest of Bowland, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that remains, surprisingly, one of the UK’s often-overlooked gems. We stayed at the charming Inn at Whitewell, an establishment that perfectly embodies rustic elegance and warm hospitality. Discovering this beautiful corner of the country was a real treat – its rolling fells, expansive moorland, and picturesque villages offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The Inn at Whitewell provided an idyllic base, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the stunning natural landscape and enjoy the region’s serene beauty. My detailed review of our stay at this remarkable inn can be found here, offering more insights into its unique charm and why it’s a destination worth exploring.
Beyond these memorable trips, May also involved a series of engaging design-focused events. I attended various press days, which are invaluable for gaining early insights into upcoming trends and innovations across different sectors. This was followed by a visit to Clerkenwell Design Week, one of London’s leading independent design festivals, where creativity and craftsmanship converge. It’s always an inspiring experience to explore the latest in furniture, lighting, and interior design. Capping off a busy month, I enjoyed a delightful afternoon catching up with fellow blogging friends at The White Company’s wonderful summer garden party. Hosted at the magnificent Eltham Palace, the event was a celebration of summer entertaining, complete with delectable food, refreshing drinks, and lively conversations in a truly spectacular setting. These moments of connection and shared passion are always a highlight.
On My Bedside Table: Inspiration for Mindful Living and Design
My bedside table is a sacred space, a quiet corner where I indulge in moments of reflection and gather inspiration before drifting off to sleep. This month, my primary companion has been Oak Journal, a captivating publication that masterfully blurs the lines between a beautifully designed book and an insightful magazine. It’s a true visual and intellectual feast, perfect for slow reading and savoring.
Oak Journal is renowned for its achingly beautiful presentation of Nordic design and interiors. Each page is a testament to the minimalist aesthetics, functional elegance, and deep connection to nature that characterize Scandinavian style. Beyond the stunning photography and impeccable layouts, the journal is rich with engaging content, featuring interesting interviews with designers and creatives, alongside thoughtful lifestyle stories. It delves into themes of sustainable living, craftsmanship, and the art of creating a harmonious environment, resonating deeply with my own design philosophy. It’s more than just a source of visual inspiration; it’s a guide to cultivating a more mindful and aesthetically pleasing existence.
The stories within Oak Journal offer a tranquil escape, providing fresh perspectives and sparking new ideas for my own home and creative projects. Volume 5, the latest edition, is particularly compelling, continuing its tradition of showcasing the best of Nordic culture and design. For anyone passionate about minimalist aesthetics, timeless interiors, and a philosophy of slow living, Oak Journal is an absolute must-read. You can find the current volume and explore their exquisite collection here. It’s the perfect companion for winding down, encouraging a sense of calm and beauty that extends beyond its pages.
May has been a month of rich experiences and delightful discoveries, a bridge between the vibrant energy of spring and the serene anticipation of summer. From indulging in luxurious home fragrances to styling comfortable yet chic outfits, exploring the intricacies of design and craftsmanship, and finding peace in both natural landscapes and inspiring reads, each moment has contributed to a feeling of gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead. I hope this recap provides you with a dose of inspiration for your own home, wardrobe, and adventures.
What were your favorite moments or discoveries this May? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
May’s Featured Favorites & Credits:
Bed linen – Soak & Sleep*
Mug | Jono Smart
Linen mist & diffuser | Molton Brown*
Culottes | Whistles
Top | Whistles
Studio couch & coffee table | Ercol
Pillowsham | Christy*
Tray | Caro
Journal | Oak Journal*
* Indicates items received as a gift or sample.